8017 N. University Dr, Parkland, FL 33067
Keeping Your Senior Pet Comfortable
Pets age more rapidly than humans, and by around 7 years old, most dogs and cats are classified as seniors. At Parkland Animal Clinic, we recognize their special health requirements and are dedicated to helping you give your aging companion the best possible care.
Caring for Your Senior Dog
As pets age, they require specialized care to maintain their health and longevity. We recommend scheduling check-ups every six months for senior dogs to closely monitor any changes, including weight loss, heart and lung conditions, dental disease, cataracts, glaucoma, arthritis, and cancer. Regular veterinary visits help detect and manage potential health issues early, keeping your dog happy and healthy.
- One human year is roughly equal to 5–7 dog years, so health changes can happen quickly, sometimes within 3–6 months.
- Most dogs are considered seniors at age 7, but larger breeds may be seniors as early as 5 years old.
- Dental disease is common in senior dogs and can cause pain, infections, tooth loss, and may affect the kidneys and heart.
- Like older humans, senior pets benefit from regular health screenings, including blood tests, urinalysis, fecal exams, X-rays, and ultrasounds.
- Nutritional needs change with age; older dogs often eat less and exercise less. Protein malnutrition can contribute to many kidney and liver problems.
- Obesity is a serious health risk for senior dogs, increasing the chance of arthritis, diabetes, and heart or respiratory issues.
- Behavioral changes such as disorientation, increased sleeping, less interaction, or house training problems are common in senior pets and can often be managed with modern treatments.
Specialized Care for Older Cats
- Cats are generally considered seniors by the age of 8.
- One human year equals about 5–7 cat years, so significant health changes can happen within 3–6 months.
- Dental disease is common in senior cats, causing pain, infection, tooth loss, bad breath, and may contribute to kidney and heart disease.
- Senior cats benefit from regular health screenings, including blood tests, urinalysis, fecal exams, X-rays, and ultrasounds.
- Older cats often need dietary adjustments, as they usually eat fewer calories and are less active.
- Protein malnutrition is linked to 50–70% of kidney and liver disorders, while obesity can lead to arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal problems.
- Behavioral changes like disorientation, increased sleep, reduced interaction, or housetraining issues are common and can often be managed with modern therapies.
